THE new Bishop of Gloucester was revealed today as Rachel Treweek - the first female diocesan bishop to be appointed by the Church of England.

The Venerable Rachel Treweek is currently Archdeacon of Hackney.

An announcement was made today at Harnhill, Driffield near Cirencester.

She takes over the role from The Right Reverend Michael Perham, who retired in November.

She is the third woman to be made a bishop following the Reverend Canon Alison White, the new Bishop of Hull, and the Reverend Libby Lane, the Bishop of Stockport.

The Ven Treweek said: "It is an immense joy and privilege to be appointed as the Bishop of Gloucester. I am surprised and, I have to admit, even a little daunted by the prospect, but my overwhelming feeling is one of excitement to be coming to join with others in sharing the love of Jesus Christ with the people of this diocese."

It is understood that the Ven Treweek, 52, will become the first woman bishop to enter the House of Lords. The appointment means she is the first woman to run a diocese and is one rank below an Archbishop.

She said: "I am looking forward to encouraging Christians to speak out with confidence about their faith and the good news that the Gospel brings.

"It will be my privilege to work with churches as we connect with people, wherever they are and whatever their concerns.

"My calling to the role of bishop has been shaped by human encounter.

"I believe profoundly that relationship is at the heart of who God is. I have been with people through the joys and pains of their lives and it is these experiences that I will reflect upon as I take up this new role."